Workshop: Anatomy of the thorax
Basic concepts in anatomy, through the special case of the thorax
The terminology used by clinicians to describe the anatomical features they are referring to can be confusing, especially if non-field experts are unfamiliar with the sequential way anatomists order what they see. An understanding of the standard approach to anatomy and knowledge of the basic anatomy of the body by systems or regions can help to achieve an accurate translation.
We will introduce these concepts, using the case of thoracic anatomy. The thorax comprises three main areas: chest wall, respiratory apparatus, and heart. Although the gross anatomy of these systems can be studied individually, knowledge of their functional relationship is essential in order to understand the concepts described in medical texts.
Special problems that arise in the language used to described diagnostic images will also be mentioned.
Developer/Facilitator: Philip Bazire, MD
Description: The workshop will be divided into three sections: 1) Basic anatomical concepts and terminology; 2) Gross anatomy of the chest wall, respiratory system, and heart; 3) Imaging studies: x-ray, CT, MRI, and ultrasound/echo-Doppler.
Translation and editing examples will be worked into the presentation, and anatomy resources available in print and on the web will be assessed.
Who should attend?: Translators and text editors with an interest in medical translation will benefit from an understanding of the basic concepts of anatomy and will acquire a greater specific knowledge of the anatomy of the chest, with a particular focus on function.
Outcome skills:
- Become aware of “systems” organization of anatomy and how different systems interact in the same region.
- Recognize the concepts of relative position in anatomy and imaging.
- Be equipped for more efficient online research to solve language-related anatomy problems.
Pre-meeting information:
Participants are encouraged to bring examples of difficulties they have encountered in the translation of anatomical or functional concepts relating to the heart and lungs.
They are also welcome to send their examples to the facilitator beforehand in order for a more detailed response to be prepared than might be feasible during the workshop itself or for possible inclusion in the presentation.
About the facilitator: Philip Bazire is a surgeon with training both in England and in Spain and has worked as a medical translator since 1998.
